The Magdalene Mysteries
Elastic Theatre embarks on an epic journey across the different depictions of Mary Magdalene through the ages. A cross-cultural cast of 14 performers tells the stories of this fascinating character through text, contemporary dance and vocal music. Watch the VIDEO.
The Magdalene Mysteries is an imaginary journey across the life of Mary Magdalene, created by fusing original historical documents. Opening with Mary Magdalene as witness to the life of Christ and as rival to Peter in the leadership of the Disciples, the piece moves to the medieval accounts of her journey to Marseilles and her thirsty years of contemplation there. Could it be at this point in her life that the so-called mysteries were revealed to her, inspiring her own controversial gospel? As her words are erased by the early Church, her tragedy unfolds before her eyes – the repentant sinner, here symbolised by her Shadows, becomes the icon by which she is remembered, and forgotten, in history.
“Multi-disciplined, cross-cultural and trans-national theatre company Elastic Theatre marks itself out here as one to watch with this new production… A fascinating exploration of patriarchy and Christianity” 4 STARS Time Out
“The work Elastic Theatre is producing is unusual, exciting and innovative… well worth a look when it opens at the Southwark and keep an eye out for this company, as they have an exceptionally promising future producing pioneering and inventive theatre” 4 STARS Fringe Review
“It is well worth catching this intriguing contemporary dance, voice and music theatre production…The imagery, chorus of voices, and atmosphere is haunting yet gracious. It leads the audience to ponder, puzzle and admire”. Bankside Press
Presented at The Space, Canary Wharf (May 08); St James’s Church, Piccadilly (June 08);Teatro Sala Uno, Rome (Roma Teatro Festival); Southwark Playhouse, London Bridge (July 2008). With thanks to the HALE Department at London Metropolitan University, Action Claims, Hurleypalmerflatt, La Volpe e l’Uva, St James’ Piccadilly and the Southwark Playhouse.
Download “Mary Magdalene: a mind map” by Jacek Ludwig Scarso (173kb pdf)
